To be diligent is to be someone who works hard; the diligent believe that hard work is the key to success. The word fervent means to have or display passion and intensity. If I combine the words diligent and fervent to describe a person, I describe a person who works hard with intensity and passion.

The Apostle Paul used these two words to describe how believers should work in the kingdom of God and behave towards one another. How is your work and behavior in the kingdom of God? After reading the text below with new understanding of the meaning of the words diligent and fervent, you may need to do some soul searching and or some repentance.

“Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer, contributing to the needs of the saints, practicing hospitality.” Romans 12:10-13 (NASB)

 
Did you notice our two words in the text? “Not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit.” or as The Message version puts it, “keep yourselves fueled and aflame.” Everything you do in God’s kingdom should be done with diligence and fervency. Lack of participation in church or failure in the home or workplace is the result of a lack of diligence and fervency.

Remember that your diligence and fervency are a measure of your enthusiasm for the kingdom of God.

Be Blessed,
Bishop Jemmott

Purchase Bishop Jemmott’s books and sermons here. Including his latest release entitled “Still Standing”.